23Joe Haden CB

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Steelers' Joe Haden: Leads team in defensive battle

by RotoWire Staff | RotoWire

Haden had a team-high 12 tackles (eight solo) and an interception during Sunday's 17-10 win over New England.

The 12 tackles were the most in a game for Haden since 2014. He also had his second interception of the season for a defense that has struggled to force turnovers all season. Through 14 games Pittsburgh is minus nine in turnovers, fifth worst in the league. They face New Orleans -- who is plus eight in turnovers -- in Week 16.

Haden recorded three tackles (all solo) and an interception during Sunday's 33-18 win over Cleveland.

Trailing 7-6 lead in the second quarter Cleveland was driving when Haden intercepted a Baker Mayfield pass intended for Damion Ratley at the Pittsburgh 13-yard line. The Steelers took the ensuing drive down field for a score and never looked back. The interception was the first this season and 21st in Haden's career. He'll look to add to that total in Week 9 against Baltimore and Joe Flacco, who threw two interceptions in Week 8 against Carolina and four in his last four games.

Haden was absent from the Steelers' injury report ahead of Monday's matchup with the Buccaneers, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

Haden was sidelined for last week's loss to the Chiefs, and his absence was certainly noticed as the Chiefs moved the ball with ease all afternoon. He was a full participant at practice throughout the week, so there is no surprise he will return Monday night. Barring any setbacks, look for the lockdown cornerback to take on his usual role.

Haden missed the first two weeks of the season with the hamstring strain and was unable to participate at practice last week. The veteran cornerback still has two more practices to work through, but he'll likely be ready to make his season debut Monday night against the Buccaneers.